Cindy Soderberg gets ready to read a book recently to students in a classroom at Fisher Elementary School. Soderberg is a retired teacher who works as a substitute in the district.
Cindy Soderberg loves to have time for her grandchildren while also continuing her love of teaching. She has found that healthy balance as a substitute teacher in the Marshalltown Community School District.
Soderberg retired as a teacher in 2008 and has been a substitute ever since. This allows her to be able to say “no” to work if she has other things on her schedule.
“I love to teach, it’s my passion,” she said. “Subbing for me is the best of both worlds.”
She typically subs two to three days a week in the elementary buildings in the school district.
While substitute teaching provides some challenges, it also provides rewards for Soderberg. She loves seeing children get excited about learning.
“I love the smiles,” Soderberg said. “I love the eagerness and the excitement when they are learning and enjoying what they are doing.”
Soderberg can also lean on fellow teachers and the paraeducators to help her throughout the day.
“Our paraeducators in this district are top notch,” she said. “They are helpful and they know the routine and the teacher’s expectations.”
Becoming a substitute teacher
Licensed teachers or people with a substitute authorization may apply to be substitutes in the school district by applying online at Teach Iowa. There is a link to Teach Iowa at the district website under the “Employment” section at www.marshalltown.k12.ia.us. The school district is always looking for more substitute teachers.
For more information on becoming a substitute teacher, call the Marshalltown Community School District Human Resources office at 641-754-1000.
